New York Jets: Final player evaluations at linebacker
Demario Davis
FINAL STATS: 135 TACKLES, 97 SOLO, FIVE SACKS, THREE PASSES DEFENDED, ONE FUMBLE RECOVERY
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Some guys are sent to exile and are never the same again. Some become better. Demario Davis became better and it was music to the ears of Jets fans.
After four years initially in New York, the Jets were looking at an average linebacker at best. Yes, he could make a tackle, but he didn’t have the grasp of the defense he needed to eventually take over for David Harris. That was especially true when he was running around aimlessly to catch up with running backs and tight ends in the passing game.
So after the 2015 season, Davis was left unsigned by the Jets and signed with football purgatory, the Cleveland Browns. The Jets must have liked what they saw because he was reacquired in return for Calvin Pryor.
What the Jets got was a proficient tackler, an improving pass defender and a leader. 135 tackles was good for sixth in the NFL. Just be watching it was clear that Davis was improved in defending the pass. Finally, his ability to lead came through. Rich Cimini of ESPN told the Play Like a Jet podcast during their offseason roundtable that Davis led a practice on his own with the defense, drills and all.
What a difference one year makes.